Orthodontic elastics are small bands made of rubber, that are part of your braces and they come in a wide selection of fun colours. Here, our Langley orthodontists explain some things you need to know about these elastics so you can have a successful orthodontic treatment.
There are two different types of rubber bands that your orthodontist uses in orthodontic treatments. The first is called ligatures. Ligatures wrap around every individual bracket to help the archwire stay in place. They remain in place during your entire treatment and are only taken out by your orthodontist at your adjustment appointments.
Every treatment with braces requires ligatures, however, there's also another type of elastic that a handful of patients require for additional support. These are known as interarch bands. Interarch bands help align your jaw and correct your bite.
If you need to have interarch bands as part of your orthodontic treatment, we only recommend removing them to eat, floss or brush your teeth, and only if necessary. Whatever your personal dentist or orthodontist prescribes, you must follow their instructions exactly, or you may put your treatment off track.
Typically, interarch elastics need to be replaced every day.
You can choose the colour of your orthodontic elastics from a variety of colour options. You can opt to change their colours every time you see your orthodontist for an adjustment appointment. The sky's the limit when combining the colours you choose from, which could make braces treatment a little more fun for patients.
Sometimes people decide to have a fun rainbow smile that really stands out, while other patients rather a more discrete look and select clear or silver coloured elastics that blend in.